Nashville Predators Quarterly Report Card: Much Improved

Special Teams: B- (Q1: F, Q2: C)

Easily the most improved on-ice component of the 2021 iteration of the Nashville Predators, the Special Teams units have really come on strong as of late, and are another big reason the team has found success recently.

The Predators power play ranks in the top 50 percent of the NHL for the first time since 2011-2012, and Tolvanen remains a big reason why, but one of the biggest unsung heroes for the power play has to be Mikael Granlund, who has consistently produced opportunities and plays a gritty style that sustains chances for scoring.

On the flip side, the penalty kill was the most woeful aspect of the Predators’ game early on, ranking as the worst in the NHL, or just above it.

The penalty kill was so bad that they still rank 29th in the league on the season, however, since March 15th, the Predators have the top-ranked penalty kill in the league, at 92.9% – if that isn’t one of the most mind blowing stats, I don’t know what is.

As the old saying goes, better late than never, and that seems to be the mantra of the 2021 Nashville Predators when it comes to figuring our Special Teams.

It also doesn’t hurt to have that Saros guy playing lights-out in the crease.